Gambling in the USA
Cotler VIP Tours, Inc. Surviving COVID-19 With Pivot to Online Sports and Gambling Media Brand ‘The Props Network’

Celebrating its 35th year in business as licensed casino junket reps, Cotler VIP Tours, Inc.—known publicly as VIP Gambling Tours—announced its expansion into interactive gaming with the launch of its US sportsbook affiliate brand ThePropsNetwork.com. The brand debuted in January with licensing in Pennsylvania and New Jersey and has since expanded into West Virginia, Indiana and Iowa. The sports and gambling focused media brand has survived the casino shut downs with original produced shows, podcasts, and a landmark venture into live professional sports productions.
“Our goal in launching ThePropsNetwork.com has been to make the enjoyable experiences we create for our VIP gamblers accessible to the online gambling community,” says Steve Cotler, founder of Cotler VIP Tours, Inc. “Particularly now as we’ve seen the impact of COVID-19 on our land-based business model, creating an online presence allows us new opportunities to interact with existing customers, introduce new forms of gambling entertainment and engage a new generation of gambling clientele.”
Cotler tapped Kyle Piasecki—whose igaming credentials include Caesars Interactive Entertainment and Mobile Gaming Technologies dba ‘CashBet’—as a partner and head of affiliate operations for ThePropsNetwork.com. Seasoned television producer Sam Cotler serves as the brand’s co-founder and head of content, developing original podcasts and video entertainment, such as “Just for Sport,” hosted by 4X Emmy winning sports anchor Jumoke Davis, and “Pile It On” with co-hosts Steve Clark and Joel Walkowski, aka “The Professional Gambler” both accredited writers, producers, and comedians.
Walkowski also co-hosts “Inaction: The Quarantine Quiz Show,” a comedy game show ThePropsNetwork.com debuted in April “to help sports fans pass the pandemic.” The show is co-hosted by comedian Donnie Sengsstack.
When the casino and sports world shuttered in March, the team brokered a monumental sports and gambling media deal. The outcome being one of the first pro sporting events to return in the US. The high volume, live, professional, men’s and women’s Tennis series is now an available betting market on sportsbooks worldwide and broadcast daily on ESPN3.
Piasecki credits the brand leadership team’s diverse experience with giving The Props Network a competitive edge: “Collectively, we understand what gamblers—and specifically sports bettors—want in terms of original online content, and we have the capability to deliver it,” he says. “The result is a true media brand that sets a new standard of quality for interactive gaming and, now more than ever, helps fill a void for sports fans who are missing that avenue of entertainment.”
SOURCE The Props Network
Gambling in the USA
California Gambling Control Commission Advances Licensing, Tribal Partnerships, and Responsible Gaming Initiatives

Sacramento, CA — In a meeting packed with regulatory updates and licensing decisions, the California Gambling Control Commission (CGCC) convened on April 24 to advance numerous agenda items impacting the state’s gambling landscape—from tribal gaming approvals to responsible gambling programs and operator renewals.
Problem Gambling & Public Health Takes the Stage
The Commission meeting opened with a presentation by Sosha Marasigan-Quintero from the California Department of Public Health, offering an overview and update on the California Problem Gambling Treatment Services Program. While no specific staff recommendations were provided, the update underscores California’s continued focus on behavioral health in gambling.
Tribal Revenue Distribution Approved
The Commission approved the quarterly distribution of payments from the Revenue Sharing Trust Fund to eligible recipient Indian Tribes. This routine, yet vital, procedure ensures the equitable distribution of revenue to support tribal sovereignty and infrastructure across the state.
Cardroom Licensing: Approvals and Extensions
Among key licensing matters:
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500 Club Casino (K & M Casinos, Inc.) received both initial and renewal owner-type license approvals through January 2027.
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Casino Chico, Hollywood Park Casino, and Lake Bowl Cardroom were granted renewals and short-term extensions, some with conditions such as improving record-keeping systems or ensuring regulatory compliance ahead of reopening.
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Hotel Del Rio & Casino was granted a 60-day extension under several strict conditions, including updated safety plans and the restatement of commingled financial records.
Key Employee Licensing Actions
The Commission approved several initial and renewal key employee licenses. Notably:
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Jeffrey Thompson was approved with a condition prohibiting involvement in illegal gambling activities.
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Kevin Lee and George Rahme received 120-day extensions for renewal processing.
Third-Party Proposition Player Services Under Scrutiny
The Commission approved both initial and temporary licenses for Fortune Players Group, Inc., with a lengthy list of conditions tied to the conduct of a former associate, Rene Medina. These conditions highlight the Commission’s ongoing vigilance in monitoring third-party player services and maintaining compliance across operations.
Progressive Gaming, LLC was also approved for an initial license, further expanding third-party service provider capacity.
Gaming Resource Suppliers & Tribal Approvals
Initial suitability findings for several prominent tribal gaming resource suppliers were approved, including:
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HCAL, LLC
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JCM Global
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Konami Gaming, Inc.
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PDS Gaming, LLC
Dozens of tribal gaming employees were also approved for key positions at tribal casinos across California, reflecting the Commission’s continued support of tribal gaming operations and the necessary workforce to support it.
Notable Withdrawals and Denials
In two notable cases, requests to withdraw license applications—Josephine Hoang and Jesus Bojorquez—were denied, signaling the Commission’s increased scrutiny and emphasis on applicant accountability.
A Broader Look Ahead
With regulatory reform on the horizon and ongoing efforts to promote responsible gaming, the April 2025 CGCC meeting showcased a mix of routine license management and deeper engagement with emerging compliance issues. As the Commission prepares for the next quarter, the groundwork laid in this session will likely influence policy developments and enforcement trends across California’s gambling sector.
Gambling in the USA
NEW YORK CASINO IN MEXICO WELCOMES CONCEPT AND NEW GAMES FROM ZITRO

The renowned Mexican operator Logrand has installed Zitro’s new CONCEPT cabinets and a selection of its latest games at the New York Casino in Monterrey.
Building on its global success, the CONCEPT cabinet line stands out for its Magic Lighting, immersing players in a synchronized light display, resulting in a unique sensory experience. Furthermore, the cabinet’s large Screen Deck blends comfort with intuitive functionality, optimizing the experience for players and operational teams.
The installation of the CONCEPT cabinets is complemented by the addition of the medieval-themed multi-game Legendary Sword, in which players can double their prizes through unique mechanics with the help of a magic sword.
On the other hand, Fairyland Quest takes players to an enchanted forest where Magic Mushrooms give access to a different bonus each, while a friendly Fairy will give a special bonus that doubles the playing area.
Juan David Baracaldo, Director of Operations and Product, highlighted: “The addition of Zitro’s CONCEPT cabinets is a great step to continue offering unique and high-quality experiences to our players. The unique combination of technology, spectacular graphics, and the experience these cabinets offer will further elevate our casino’s entertainment offering.”
For his part, Johnny Ortiz Viveiros, founder of Zitro, expressed: “We are very excited to strengthen our partnership with Logrand, a strategic partner that shares our vision of providing exceptional gaming experiences. The new CONCEPT cabinets and games like Legendary Sword and Fairyland Quest are just the beginning of what will transform how players enjoy entertainment.”
Gambling in the USA
Sky River Casino Guest Wins Half-million Dollars Playing Progressive Blackjack

Sky River Casino has announced that an Elk Grove resident has won a whopping $511,311 while playing progressive blackjack on March 31, 2025. The Sky River Rewards member hit the big win after playing the table game for less than an hour.
“Our progressive table games and slot machines continue to be really hot here at Sky River Casino. Our players have had an impressive number of life-changing jackpots and our winning streak continues. We look forward to the next big win and welcome adults near and far to visit to explore and enjoy our high-energy atmosphere, lively promotions, exciting gaming, and unparalleled dining experiences,” said Michael J. Facenda, President of Sky River Casino.
The lucky local guest plans to use her winnings to renovate a kitchen and build a house back home.
“Without question, the best part of my job is watching our valued members and guests experience jaw dropping wins like this one. We all share in the incredible excitement that is absolutely contagious and can be felt throughout the casino,” said Charleen Ripley, VP of Casino Operations for Sky River Casino.
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